When getting your first wetsuit be sure to carefully consider what time of year you will be using it.

From November to May in the UK you need a 5mm suit ideally. From May to October you can get a 3mm suit which will be cheaper.

Good brands that you are likely to come across in Cornwall are West, Xcel, Snugg etc. You usually get what you pay for. A summer suit around £120 should be okay... winter suits are good quality around £160 plus.

depends what you mean when you say paying through the nose? Whats your budget?

A decent wetsuit should cost no more than £130-150.

Depends if you want a summer wetsuit or winter wetsuit?

If you want a wetsuit which will do you all year round, just go for a 5/3mm. If you order online make sure you weigh and measure yourself and use the sizing charts. If in need contact the shop and they will tell you which size will fit. This is how i bought mine, they helped a lot[/url]

I know this is an old thread, but i wondered if i could refresh because its similar to my topic?

Basically i'm starting to surf this summer, Im in my late 50's and i'm looking to buy a wetsuit and surf board. I am moving to Cornwall to retire early, and have always wanted to surf after having lessons at Sennen cove well over 17 years ago.

Which wetsuits are good? I have never heard of any of these brands West, Xcel, Snugg.

I only want a cheapy because as you know, savings in the bank dont produce great return right now.

I am still yet to buy one. The water is too damn cold right now here and i was told by a surf shop that i will need a thinner wetsuit for summer. I didn't want to buy a thick wetsuit and get no use out of it until next winter. I'm going to hang on until the water warms and a thin wetsuit as instructed.

Ebay is ok, but if i wanted to return it due to sizing then i'm stuck. I will update on what i get in a month